Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:

• Continental's golf ball-inspired tires

• McLaren fires up its 2025 F1 car

• Volkswagen's $20,000 EV reveal

• Arizona's $500 slow lane fine

• Andretti hints at experience in F1 driver search

...and more!

INDUSTRY NEWS

Koenigsegg has unveiled the engineering innovations behind its 249-mph Gemera, a four-seat vehicle that combines practicality with extraordinary performance capabilities. Featuring a unique powertrain that integrates a powerful V8 engine and an electric motor, the Gemera's design emphasizes both space efficiency and advanced torque vectoring for enhanced driving dynamics. [Jalopnik]

Alfa Romeo has announced the pricing for its Junior Ibrida, an electrified small SUV that starts at £27,895, making it a more affordable option compared to similarly sized hybrid vehicles. This model, which features a 48-volt hybrid system and a 1.2-liter engine, will be available in a single trim when it launches later this month, with additional packages offering enhanced features yet to be priced. [AutoExpress​.co​.uk]

The AGTZ Twin Tail, a new model inspired by the classic Alpine A220 racer, has made its debut at Retromobile, with a design that pays tribute to both historic and contemporary automotive artistry. Handcrafted by Zagato, the first customer car showcases unique features and personalization options, with additional builds already in development for enthusiasts looking to make a statement at future events. [PistonHeads​.com]

Mazda is preparing to introduce a mid-size electric SUV, tentatively named the CX-6e, which aims to compete with established models like the Tesla Model Y while adhering to upcoming zero-emission vehicle regulations. The new SUV is expected to be built on a versatile platform that could enhance its performance and efficiency, with a focus on delivering a comfortable driving experience and a competitive range. [AutoExpress​.co​.uk]

Volkswagen is set to unveil a new budget-friendly electric vehicle next month, potentially priced at €20,000, which would make it significantly more affordable than existing entry-level EVs in the US. The company also hinted at the model's name, "ID. One", and confirmed plans for another economical EV, the ID. 2, both of which will use an updated modular battery platform. [The Verge - Transportation]

Ford's CEO, Jim Farley, emphasized the importance of extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) for the American market, highlighting their appeal to consumers who prefer larger vehicles. EREVs combine electric propulsion with a gasoline engine that generates electricity, offering a practical solution for long-distance travel while addressing the challenges of high battery costs associated with fully electric trucks and SUVs. [InsideEVs]

Continental has introduced new tires inspired by the aerodynamics of golf balls, with the EcoContact 7 range, using a unique dimpled design to minimize air turbulence. The tires also incorporate a specialized rubber compound to enhance performance, making them suitable for both electric and traditional vehicles, though they are classified as summer tires. [Motor1]

It’s been confirmed during a Tesla earnings call that the current HW3 hardware cannot support the promised “Full Self Driving” capabilities, with an upgrade to the new HW4 system required for customers who’ve purchased the package. This situation mirrors past experiences with hardware updates, where owners of older models were required to upgrade to access features that were initially marketed as available. [Jalopnik]

MOTORSPORT

Cadillac is preparing to enter Formula 1 in 2026 and is actively searching for a driver lineup that can make a significant impact during its debut season. Mario Andretti, a former F1 champion, has shared that the team is prioritizing experienced drivers with a background in F1 to ensure a strong start, while he himself will take on a supportive role without daily involvement in operations. [RacingNews365]

Grove Racing has announced that Stephen Grove is recovering well following his crash during the Bathurst 12 Hour event, where his vehicle collided with the wall and became airborne. Although he initially reported back pain, further evaluations revealed that he did not suffer any serious injuries and is in good spirits as he looks forward to returning to racing. [Sportscar365]

The Trans Am Hall of Fame will celebrate its inaugural inductees on February 21 at Sebring International Raceway, honoring 18 significant figures from the series' history. This event marks a tribute to the Trans Am Series, which has captivated motorsport enthusiasts since its inception in 1966 with its blend of powerful American muscle and global GT cars. [RACER]

Conor Daly has suggested that IndyCar should expand to include races across the Americas, catering to fans of teams and drivers from outside the USA. 100-race veteran Daly secured a full-time position with Argentinian-founded Juncos Hollinger Racing for the 2025 season after achieving the team's first podium finish last year, and reflected on support for Argentina’s Agustin Canapino and Mexico’s Pato O’Ward in bringing races to the fans. [Motorsport​.com]

McLaren has released audio of its 2025 Formula 1 World Championship car starting up, as it seeks to defend its 2024 title. The Mercedes-powered car will look to fend off challenges from Ferrari and Red Bull while also delivering a driver title for either Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri, with the vehicle set to be present at the F1 75 launch later this month. [RacingNews365]

Lamborghini plans to shift its focus in customer GT racing with the upcoming launch of the Temerario GT3, aiming to provide enhanced support to a select number of performance-driven teams. The brand is committed to a phased rollout of the new vehicle across major racing series in Europe, Asia, and North America, while continuing to compete with the Huracan GT3 EVO II in the current season. [RACER]

Aston Martin is set to reveal its AMR25 car on February 23 through an online event, shortly before its first track appearance in Bahrain. This launch follows the team's livery presentation at the F1's 75th anniversary event on February 18, and will be accompanied by promotional content shared on Aston Martin's media channels. [Autosport]

Jorge Martin will not participate in the remaining days of the Sepang MotoGP test due to multiple fractures sustained in a crash during the first day of the event. After being thrown from his bike and landing heavily, he was found to have a fracture in his right hand and several fractures in his left foot, necessitating surgery and a return to Europe for treatment. [Motorsport​.com]

FUN STUFF

A DIY enthusiast has crafted a unique interpretation of the Koenigsegg Jesko hypercar, featuring a custom body and dihedral doors, while using components from an early-1990s’ Toyota Corolla. Although the four-cylinder engine may not rival high-performance counterparts, the extensive fabrication process showcases impressive craftsmanship and creativity in replicating some of the original car's notable features. [The Drive]

Police in Mobile, Alabama, engaged in a bizarre chase when a man attempted to flee a stolen skid-steer. The incident began when construction workers reported their vehicle missing, and despite the slow speed of the chase, the driver caused damage to police cars before being hospitalized for injuries sustained after the police opened fire. [Carscoops]

A small Japanese company named Good Wood Park is making a name for itself in creative modifications to the Nissan Micra, crafting cars inspired by small classic British and German vehicles. While not as well-known as the similar brand Mitsuoka, Good Wood Park’s creations are in a similar vein, with the Ministar and Herbie models made to resemble the Mini and Beetle respectively and at accessible prices. [The Autopian]

Arizona lawmakers are considering a new bill that would impose fines on drivers who travel too slowly in the left lane of multi-lane highways, aiming to enhance road safety. Proposed by Representative Teresa Martinez, the legislation seeks to address traffic congestion caused by slower vehicles, with fines reaching up to $500 for offenders, while still allowing for exceptions in certain situations. [Jalopnik]

After purchasing a second-hand Rolls-Royce Cullinan, a man from Georgia fell victim to an unusual car theft when was stolen before it could reach his home, with the vehicle rerouted as part of a delivery scam. Despite tracking it down, through social media courtesy of its unique starlight roof pattern, to a Mexican dealership the vehicle remains out of his hands after it was subsequently sold to a singer. [Carscoops]

The Brawn GP BGP 001/01, a rare Formula 1 car, will be auctioned for the first time during the Miami Grand Prix this May, marking a significant moment for collectors. This chassis, which achieved notable success in the 2009 season, is one of only three ever built and has a rich history tied to the team's remarkable rise from the remnants of Honda's operation. [RACER]

A rare collection of Honda ATC250R all-terrain cycles, including a boxed and unopened 1986 model, recently sold for an impressive $200,000 in New York, highlighting the enduring appeal of vintage two-stroke vehicles. The sale, facilitated by D&A Restorations, drew significant interest from collectors, demonstrating that even decades-old machines can command high prices in the right market. [The Drive]

One Corvette owner’s wild, highly customized C5 model has come up for sale, with unique, C3-derived looks and an 800hp engine. The striking design also includes a number of C6 parts, while the party piece is the twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter LS V8 engine, and while the asking price of $41,000 seems steep for a mashup it is a unique prospect being both road-legal and track-oriented. [Carscoops]

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